The two-week PRODUCER’S INTENSIVE MASTER'S PROGRAMS (PIMP) are a learning experience like no other: designed to advance the skills and knowledge of those intent on pursuing careers as independent filmmakers, journalists or producers.

In each program, some of Canada's top indy filmmakers, including Nettie Wild, Brett Gaylor, Jennifer Abbott, Leanne Allison, Velcrow Ripper, Peter Campbell, Marcus Youseff, Jill Sharpe and Aerlyn Weissman - some of Canada’s finest screenwriters, cinematographers, producers & editors - have agreed to teach specialized workshops on the processes, tools and techniques of independent media production.

The live-in and fully catered experience allows students to get many hours of practical experience late into the evening while not being distracted by the normal responsibilities of day to day life!

These programs run from Monday straight through until the following Friday*.The environment is designed to allow people with limited  time and financial resources to gain skills normally taught over a much longer time frame. Graduates receive a certificate attesting to the skills they have acquired, a resource package to help facilitate their next project, and copies of all work produced.

In the spring and fall, the PIMP is preceded by an Adult Media Intensive Program that will cover the basics of video production for those that need it. In the spring PIMP, choose from the Director’s Program or Activist Documentary, or in the fall, choose from the Director’s Program, New Digital Journalism 2.0 or Activist Documentary. Combining the MIP & PIMP will allow beginners to get a solid grounding in Independent Media Production in under a month!

WARNING: This is an intensive course for two continuous weeks, at least 150 hours of working and learning time. Come see what you’re made of.

“The most important thing about GIFTS is the DIY ethic and the can-do spirit. It’s very much the opposite of most film programs… You can use whatever tools you have at your disposal, and as long as you have an idea and a bit of fire in your belly, you can go out and make a beautiful and powerful little film. I think the best possible testimonial for GIFTS is just the
amazing quality of many of the student films that are made there.”

~Diana Wilson, Director/Producer, GIFTS mentor and former student.